Swing DJ Relay: Highlight on Erskine Hawkins

We have a special double feature for our next event! Erskine Hawkins, A.K.A The 20th Century Gabriel, is one of the undisputed greatest jazz musicians to ever pick up a trumpet. From his humble origins as the leader of a college band (Alabama State Teachers College, now Alabama State University), Hawkins went in to lead one of the longest tenured house bands in the decorated history of the Savoy Ballroom. The Heritage Sounds Transcription Project has chosen Erskine Hawkins for its annual night of live music at Lindy Focus, and it’s guaranteed to be three sets to remember! DJs Jon Tigert and Geoff Newell will walk us through the highlights of Erskine Hawkins’ life, and take us through some of the best tracks brought to life by the genius behind “Tuxedo Junction” and many more. We will start the event with Geoff and Jon playing an educational set. Then it'll be your turn to continue the conversation: share your favourite Erskine Hawkins tunes to dance to and help us create a collaborative setlist! All Swing DJs welcome, whether you are just starting out or experienced. Swing DJ Relay is a monthly community event where DJs, dancers and musicians from all over the world get together to discuss the music and the artists that make us dance. Come discover new tunes, connect with other DJs and nerd out about jazz and dance history. HOW TO JOIN: The Zoom meeting is password protected. To prevent trolls we will be messaging participants directly with the event password. If you want to go to the event, please mark yourself as 'Going' on this facebook event. We reserve the right to verify someone's identity before giving them the password. Please be aware that we also reserve the right to remove people from the meeting at our own discretion